HARRISBURG – State Rep. Camille “Bud” George, D-74 of Clearfield County, noted that area post offices are included on a U.S. Postal Service “study list” for possible closure.
“Being on the list doesn’t necessarily mean the post office will close,” Rep. George said. “However, it does mean it is being studied for closure, and local residents should be vigilant about future steps.”
Among the area post offices “being studied as possible candidates for conversion to Village Post Offices,” and their Zip codes, are:
? Emeigh, 15738
? Brisbin, 16620
? Lanse, 16849
? Morann, 16663
? Shawville, 16873
? Wallaceton, 16876
? Blandburg, 16619
? Dysart, 16636
? LaJose, 15753
? New Millport, 16861
“Federal law apparently prohibits closing a post office just because the office isn’t bringing in enough revenue,” said George, who said that a community meeting must be scheduled by the USPS if a closure is planned. “Closing any or all of these area post offices could harm the communities, and public input is crucial to stopping a closure.”
George said many changes are afoot regarding postal service. He said some area residents have been notified to erect curbside mailboxes as part of an effort to curtail deliveries requiring carriers to leave vehicles. The USPS also is studying whether to consolidate the Johnstown and Altoona processing and distribution facilities.
“The postal service is facing severe financial strains, facing a projected $238 billion shortfall over the next decade,” George said. “However, while changes seem inevitable, engaged citizens can help to ensure that the changes are implemented wisely and without undue harm to communities.”
George said rural areas are facing other changes stemming from federal and state cutbacks. The state Revenue Department will close its Altoona District Office on Oct. 14 and merge operations with the Johnstown District Office, which serves Clearfield County.
George noted that the news comes on the heels of the announcement that the DuBois Social Security Office is reducing its hours, beginning in mid-August.
Finally, George said the state Public Utility Commission has scheduled seven public hearings, including two locally, to receive input on the effects of both the geographic split and overlay options designed to ensure adequate numbers in the 814 area code.
Local hearings are scheduled for 6 p.m. Aug. 17 at the DuBois High School Auditorium and for 6 p.m. Aug. 24 at the Ramada Altoona Conference Center in Altoona.
More information is available at the commission’s website, www.puc.state.pa.us.